Rebakingina’s victory is a slap in the face to the WTA: How many people commit injustice under the guise of doing good for you?

Rebakingina’s three-set win over Sabalenka to secure her first Australian Open championship was an outcome that many did not foresee before the event.

Another unexpected aspect was the live camera repeatedly focusing on Rebakingina’s coach’s seat, where Vukov—previously criticized and banned by the WTA—stood out clearly on screen.

Throughout the entire match, Vukov kept cheering Rebakingina on in Russian and English, offering precise and concrete instructions. What impressed me most was when Rebakingina was down 0-3 in the final set, Sabalenka hit a strong return winner. Known for her powerful serve, Rebakingina seemed momentarily confused and looked towards the coaching box. Vukov responded with a firm gaze and repeatedly mouthed the English word “energy” to motivate her, helping her regain composure and confidence.

What happened next was witnessed by everyone. Rebakingina drew strength from Vukov’s gaze and words, immediately delivering an ace and a service winner, winning five games in a row, and ultimately sealing the match with a final ace.

In the post-match interview, Rebakingina expressed gratitude to Vukov, saying, “I feel he helped me a lot because he knows me best. His advice during the match was absolutely crucial. The rest of my team is the same. I think it’s very important; I have always worked with the same physiotherapist, and now I’ve been working with a fitness coach for some time... plus a coach who understands me well and has always supported me. The team is definitely very important. Vukov contributed to these achievements as well.”

When asked about Vukov’s suspension last year, Rebakingina said, “It was a difficult experience, but I learned a lot from it. I realized who my close people are and who I can trust. I’m satisfied with my current team, and I hope all of that is behind me now.”

Last year, Vukov was officially suspended by the WTA for one year starting February 2025 after accusations of verbal abuse, mental mistreatment, and overtraining of Rebakingina. The suspension covered all WTA, ITF, and related events, barring him from entering tournament venues and training areas.

However, Rebakingina firmly denied and opposed the suspension, stating, “I disagree with many of the WTA’s actions regarding my relationship with Vukov.” During Vukov’s suspension, Rebakingina maintained their collaboration through private practice sessions during breaks between tournaments, such as training together at a Dubai facility outside WTA jurisdiction. Some commentators suggested that Rebakingina might have developed a psychological dependency on Vukov, akin to “Stockholm syndrome.”

Vukov repeatedly appealed the WTA suspension and was ultimately reinstated during the US Open last year, allowing him to rejoin Rebakingina’s team. As a form of protest, after winning the WTA Finals in Riyadh in November, Rebakingina refused to take a photo with WTA CEO Steve Simon, who led the investigation and suspension decision.

Since Vukov’s return, Rebakingina’s results have steadily improved. In the year he rejoined, she posted a 22-4 record, including 11-2 against Top 20 players and 10-2 against Top 10 players, earning 3105 points across seven tournaments. In 2026, under Vukov’s guidance, she has achieved a 9-1 record, including 3-0 against Top 10 opponents, and earned 2108 points in two events so far.

Reflecting on the situation, four-time Grand Slam doubles champion Vesnina shared her opinion: “I think Rebakingina has calmed down because she has someone who truly understands her, knows her strengths and weaknesses, and knows how to awaken and motivate her. I believe Rebakingina has a calm personality and sometimes retreats inward for reflection, but Vukov knows how to bring her back to the right mindset using his methods.”

Whether Vukov and Rebakingina’s relationship crosses the boundaries of “coach and player,” or if there was any “abuse or inappropriate contact” during his coaching, remains disputed between Rebakingina and the WTA. Setting those aside, judging by results alone, Rebakingina is undoubtedly a different level of player with Vukov than without him.

Many people have likely experienced what Rebakingina went through. How many leaders and organizations interfere in your life and strip your freedom and rights under the pretense of “doing what’s best for you”? I believe true goodwill respects the boundaries and autonomy of the individual, rather than using “for your own good” as an excuse for control.(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Yun Juan Yun Shu)